Blimey. If you thought English Premier League defending was “dreeeeaaaadful” (copyright Alan Hansen) last season, and it was, wait ‘til you see what’s coming. Groups A and B The opening day of the FIFA...

Birmingham City’s acting chairman Peter Pannu recently responded to media focus on his financial affairs with a lengthy statement on the club’s website. It said much about the man, his attitude and the Blues’ off-field problems – little of it good. Mark Murphy comments on it all.